With TIFF getting ready to kick off in just over 24 hours, the final decisions on schedules are being made, and one that may be worth carving out some time for is Aaron Wilson's "Canopy." With a number of shorts and a documentary under his belt, this marks his feature debut, and it's an assured outing that takes a simple premise and turns it into a unique cinematic experience.
It's 1942 Singapore, war is waging, and crashing into the thick, lush jungle is an Australian fighter pilot (played by Khan Chittenden) who finds himself fighting for his survival against the elements and Japanese soldiers. He doesn't have a gun, only a first aid kit, a compass and a small amount of provisions. And what follows is a journey, where night and day, dream and reality blend together in an environment that seemingly can't be tamed by the humans that have invaded it.
The film is stunningly and gorgeously shot by Stefan Duscio, who makes the surroundings almost otherworldly. And you get a sense of that in this exclusive trailer, which evocatively previews the film, nicely transmitting the measured tone and slow build thrill of the movie.
"Canopy" will make its world premiere in the Discovery section of the 2013 Toronto International Film Festival, with Odin's Eye Entertainment handling worldwide sales. Check it out below along with the one sheet for the picture.
